Youth Mental Health First Aid Training
Prevention is Better Than Cure
Supporting mental health from an early age is crucial. Many young people lack the skills, knowledge, or support to prevent mental health issues, often leading to prolonged struggles if these issues remain unaddressed. Effective early intervention can significantly improve outcomes, helping young individuals develop resilience and access the support they need before problems escalate.
Youth Mental Health First Aid Course
This Youth Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) course is designed for anyone who works with, lives with, or supports young people aged 8-18. Over two days, participants will learn how to identify, understand, and assist young individuals experiencing mental health issues.
Why Choose This Course?
Expert Facilitation: With 15 years of experience working with children and young people in schools and communities and eight years focused on enhancing mental health through effective interventions, the course is led by a trainer who brings both personal and professional insights. Having managed mental health challenges personally, the instructor offers a unique perspective on understanding and supporting young people’s mental health.
Practical Experience: The course draws on real-world experience and successful approaches developed over years of working with young people. This practical approach ensures that participants gain actionable skills and strategies.
Up-to-Date Content: The training is continuously refined based on feedback and evolving best practices to remain relevant and effective.
Course Breakdown:
Day One Morning:
- Introduction to Youth Mental Health First Aid and the action plan
- Understanding the role of the MHFAider and self-care
- Recognising helpful and unhelpful language
- Models and frameworks for supporting young people
Day One Afternoon:
- Factors influencing youth mental health
- Understanding anxiety and its impact on young people
- Crisis intervention techniques
- Active listening and empathy
- Overview of eating disorders, self-harm, and substance misuse
Day Two Morning:
- Applying the Youth MHFA action plan
- Understanding depression and its effects
- Addressing suicide and crisis situations
- Understanding psychosis in young people
Day Two Afternoon:
- Recovery, boundaries, and personal action plans
- Developing a supportive environment for young people
Support Young People Effectively
This Youth Mental Health First Aid course teaches participants how to spot the signs of mental health issues in young people, offer immediate support, and guide them towards appropriate help. While the course does not make one a therapist, it equips individuals to respond effectively, potentially preventing crises and aiding quicker recovery.
Benefits of Training
- Recognise Warning Signs: Identify early indicators of mental health issues in young people.
- Offer Support: Develop skills to listen, reassure, and assist, even in crises.
- Promote Wellbeing: Create a supportive environment and combat stigma around mental health.
Ongoing Support
Participants will be invited to join the Association of Mental Health First Aiders®️, providing access to additional resources, networking opportunities, and continued support to enhance their role.
Join the Movement
With rising levels of mental health issues among young people due to academic pressure, social media, and other factors, it is more important than ever to offer the right support. This course aims to foster a proactive approach to mental health, helping young people to thrive and ensuring that support is available when needed.
By becoming a trained Youth Mental Health First Aider, you can play a vital role in shaping a supportive and mentally healthy environment for young individuals. Start your journey today and make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people.
